Former British MP Ann Widdecombe found dead at home, man arrested on suspicion of murder

Widdecombe, a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010, was known for her strong Christian faith and outspoken views.

In 1995 as prisons minister she was embroiled in a row after defending a policy of chaining pregnant prisoners to prevent them from escaping.

Reality TV

Years later, she endeared herself to the public when she appeared in 2010 on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing show where celebrities with no dance experience are paired with a professional partner.

Her “galumphing” moves, as she described her dance style, helped her survive to the show’s quarter-finals thanks to the vote from the public, who cheered on her ability to laugh at herself.

“For many, of course, she will be best (or worst?) remembered for her unforgettable appearances on Strictly,” her management agency Cloud9 said.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said news of the murder inquiry was ”shocking” and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the circumstances “extremely distressing”.

The whole country will be utterly shocked by the awful news about the circumstances of Ann Widdecombe’s death.

Today we come together across the political divide and I pay tribute to Ann’s dedication during her many years of public service.

My thoughts and deepest condolences… pic.twitter.com/hXps6A9s78

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 10, 2026

Widdecombe joined the Brexit Party led by Nigel Farage in 2019, and served as a European MEP between 2019 and 2020.

“She played a decisive role in getting Brexit over the line and will be missed by us all,” Farage said.

Her Strictly appearance was,however, to turn her into a reality TV star, when she joined such shows as Celebrity Big Brother.

– AFP